Post Games Why Great Games Sometimes Flop (Simon Carless)
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Oct 20, 2025 Simon Carless, founder of Game Discover Co. and a guru in game discoverability, shares insights on the art of ensuring great games aren't lost in the shuffle. He discusses tracking trends with tools like Steam scanning and the role of 'vibes' in player attraction. The conversation dives into the impact of discounts on game launches, revealing their potential to boost long-term revenue but not necessarily rescue initial failures. Carless emphasizes early consulting during development and explores the balancing act between artistic vision and market demands.
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Vibes Matter As Much As Mechanics
- "Vibes" — the game's feel and personality — drive player interest as much as mechanics.
- Strong, coherent vibes help players recognize and emotionally connect with a game quickly.
Fix The Game Early, Not Just The Marketing
- Don't rely on marketing to fix a weak product: game design primarily determines discoverability.
- Move discovery work earlier in development to improve product-market fit.
Good Games Still Often Get Lost
- Even well-made games often fail due to crowded genres, low barriers to entry, or bad timing.
- Luck, genre choice, and market saturation regularly determine commercial outcomes.